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Atari has added two people to its Board of Directors, according to a press release from earlier today: Atari founder Nolan Bushnell and entrepreneur Tom Virden. (This is presumably to replace David Gardner and Phil Harrison, who have resigned from the Board. This also completes Harrison’s exit from Atari after he stepped down as President a year ago.) Now, perhaps I’m a little old fashioned, but wouldn’t you normally think a company’s founder would have at least some kind of seat on the Board? I don’t know, maybe I’m weird, maybe that’s not how they traditionally work, but it makes sense to me, so I’m glad they did it. (If anyone can enlighten me, feel free.) Bushnell is a co-founder of Atari, as I’ve mentioned repeatedly, and he was instrumental in the launch of Pong and the Atari 2600. He’s also an accomplished businessman, having started 20 companies since. He’s

Starz is offering at least two preview episodes of critically-acclaimed series “Party Down” for free on-demand and online starting April 21. The series’ second season premiere is April 23 at 10 PM (ET/PT). Note how I said “at least two.” Some cable providers have managed to get you a little more. Two episodes from season two and additional season one episodes will be available on the following television providers: Blue Ridge Communications (HD), Buckeye CableSystem, Cablevision, Charter Communications (HD), Comcast, Cox Communications (HD), DIRECTV (HD), Mediacom Communications Corporation (HD), Midcontinent Communications, RCN (HD), Service Electric Cablevision, and Verizon FiOS DirectTV is also offering the new and old episodes, but on a slightly different time table – the first episode is available on April 22, then the second on April 29. These two episodes (along with a pair from the first season) will re-air on The 101 Network. AT&T U-verse subscribers

Renault recently signed an agreement with Electronic Arts to include its vehicles in The Sims 3. The first of these is the Twizy Z.E., an all-electric two-seater that will be featured in an Electric Vehicle Pack available for download later this year. The French car company’s agreement lasts several years, and the Twizy is only the first electric vehicle planned for inclusion in the series. The special free download is a plus for people trying to keep their Sim family’s bills down – the efficient vehicle reduces a family’s total bills. All vehicles in the EVP will have this effect, but Renault’s additions will continue coming, likely with the same bill-reducing power. So I’m pretty sure I’ll be choosing a Renault when I get the DLC – as will lots of other players. Renault’s made a pretty good investment if they want to get their name out in places where

EA’s latest entry into the sports arena involves a ring. And kicking. And punching. And mixing of martial arts. Since it’s EA MMA, due out late this year. This trailer features a few of the matchups you’ll see during the course of the game. And it looks good (not just because there are multiple well-toned six-packs, either). I forgot what I was watching for a second and almost thought it was real. But that could just be from a lack of sleep. It happens. As far as game matchups go, it looks like many gamers will be pitting this title against UFC Undisputed. Who are you rooting for? Video Games | EA Sports MMA | Match-Ups Trailer XBox 360 | Playstation 3 | Nintendo Wii Follow

The developers of Crackdown 2 want you to know one thing: Their game is funny. At least, that’s what I’ve gathered. Giant balls rolling down the street? Funny! Picking up a car and throwing it down the street? Ha-ha-ha-larious! I would have to say that some of the more random events they showed were giggle-inducing, but it’s still a sort of odd humor at the end of the day. I suppose the guys do have a point, though. You’re supposed to be saving everyone, and here you are, knocking everyone in a 50-foot radius into next Tuesday. You should probably stop that and go back to saving the world. (You can do that this July on your 360.) Video Games | Crackdown 2 | Episode 2: Nothing is Sacred XBox 360 | Playstation 3 | Nintendo Wii Follow

Well it’s been another busy month with the class changes that were announced for Cataclysm! Not to mention some new items added to the Blizzard store that has some in a tizzy. I’ll have this news plus some sillies and my thoughts on two of the class changes below! In the News The big news in the past few days has been the release of the Celestial Steed and Lil XT in the Blizzard online store. And it’s a bit of an understatement to say that both were a hit. From what I’ve seen though I think the mounts may have sold more, and that only means that Blizzard will be happy about their profits for this month. Not to mention I think that they are for sure going to stick with having these micro transactions for the game. And with a mount as detailed as the Celestial Steed it

I recently had the opportunity to catch up with Adam Schrader, Director of Product Development & Technology for GSN digital before the launch of WorldWinner’s tournament style adaptation of PopCap’s epic tale about life and undeath, Plants vs Zombies. The game is now available on WorldWinner.com! GA: First, tell me a little bit about your role with WorldWinner – and specifically this adaptation of Plants vs. Zombies. Adam: I served as Director of the Product Development group working on the WorldWinner skill-gaming adaption of Plants vs. Zombies. I oversaw the game roadmap, from game design through launch. On Plants vs. Zombies I was responsible for the initial game design and execution of the project leading up to the beta. [Adam Schrader; Director of Product Development & Technology, GSN Digital] GA: The announcement for the development of a cash tournament Plants vs. Zombies came pretty quickly after the release of the

VIZ Media has finally concluded Arina Tanemura’s popular shojo drama THE GENTLEMEN’S ALLIANCE† as of April 2010. An entertaining love story about a high society school where a spirited sixteen-year-old girl, Haine Otomiya falls in love with the student body president, Shizumasa Togu. Haine was once a rebellious gang member until she met Shizumasa, who inspired her to change for the better. We follow Haine in her story of attempting to win Shizumasa’s heart, after he encourages her to live her life for herself. Published under the popular Shojo Beat imprint, THE GENTLEMEN’S ALLIANCE† is from creator Arina Tanemura known best for her spunky female characters and beautiful artwork. Don’t miss the conclusion to this fun shojo story that proves why Arina Tenemura has international fame in the shojo arena! Follow